MLB Power Rankings Based on World Series Odds (Astros Team to Beat Entering Championship Series)
By Peter Dewey
The ALDS and NLDS did not disappoint, unless you were holding a Los Angeles Dodgers or Atlanta Braves ticket to win it all.
Upsets were the theme of the Division Series, as it took just four games for the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego Padres to take down the Braves and Dodgers. Now, we're guaranteed to get an NL wild card team in the World Series.
In the American League, the Houston Astros showed they can win in just about any way against the Seattle Mariners. Seattle came from behind in Game 1 before winning an 18-inning instant classic in Game 3 to close the series.
With so many upsets this postseason, bettors have a chance to get back in the futures market with just four teams remaining. Here's how I'm power ranking these teams entering the ALCS and NLCS:
1. Houston Astros (+140) Last Week: No. 2
The Astros can beat you with their pitching and their offense, and they are rightful favorites in entering the Championship Series. Justin Verlander, Framber Valdez and that pitching staff will be tough to beat.
2. Philadelphia Phillies (+340) LW: No. 8
The Phillies have all of the momentum on their side, dominating the Braves in the NLDS. This offense is elite, and Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola is as good as a one-two punch as any rotation left in the postseason has.
3. San Diego Padres (+320) LW: No. 5
The Padres have a pitching staff that could win the title, as they knocked off the Dodgers in the NLDS. Still, I'm a little worried about San Diego's bats against this vaunted Phillies offense that was sixth in slugging percentage during the regular season.
4. New York Yankees (+470) LW: 4
The Yankees have a winner-take-all game at home in the ALDS. They are heavily favored with Nestor Cortes on the mound against Aaron Civale.
5. Cleveland Guardians (+1500) LW: No. 6
Will the Guardians come to regret losing Game 4 at home against the Yankees? It all comes down to Tuesday's Game 5 at Yankee Stadium.
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
Find Peter Dewey’s full betting record here.